Virtual reality workouts have become popular; Here is everything you need to know, from the good to the bad, about virtual reality workouts if you want to try them out.
Virtual reality (VR) workouts have quickly risen in popularity, and with good reason. They are delightful, addictive, and get the job done. However, there’s scarce information on the phenomenon; some people are skeptical about the whole thing.
This post is for you if you are looking to join the virtual reality workout fan base but want to learn more about it.
What are Virtual Reality Workouts?
Virtual reality workouts are exercises designed in a virtual setup aimed to simulate an otherwise natural environment. The virtual environment in the configuration mimics anything from a gym or yoga studio to a war zone.
The user must wear a VR headset to immerse themselves in the virtual world. The headset has an in-built motion sensor and a led screen that generates 3-D images. Also, some Virtual reality games require you to use controllers that mimic the equipment necessary for the said workout. For example, if the game requires you to have a sword, the controllers will work as one.
Advantages of Virtual Reality Workouts
VR workouts have a wide range of advantages.
Here are some of the most outstanding ones:
It Takes Up Less Space
Unlike most workout equipment, VR headsets are small hence easy to store. Also, you can make do with a significantly smaller space whenever you want to work out, be it the office or your living room.
Easy to Monitor
Thanks to how the designers set up most VR workout games, it is relatively easy to track your progress. Almost every game you choose can help you to burn a certain number of calories. So, depending on your performance, you will know precisely how many calories you have just expended, which is great for planning.
Accessibility
Virtual reality workouts are designed for a wide demographic, making them more versatile than other workouts. For example, if you have recently undergone surgery and thus can’t use most gym equipment, you can find a VR workout that meets your needs. Also, having some workouts you can do seated is a massive bonus if you have limited space.
Increases Motivation
Virtual reality workouts are more like playing video games, only that you are now part of the characters. Coupled with choosing which ‘game’ suits you the most, you get to enjoy your workout rather than feeling like it is a chore. The high morale significantly reduces the chances of skipping a workout.
Vast Variety
As more people get interested in VR workouts, the range of options increases. So, there are a wide array of games tailored to suit different people with different needs. Some of the most common ones include games that mimic boxing, police chases, robberies, dancing, and so forth.
Unlike gyms, where the environment is always the same, in virtual reality, you get to experience different alternate realities, which makes the experience more enjoyable and addictive even.
Disadvantages of VR Workouts
Virtual reality workouts have their own set of challenges; here are some you should keep in mind:
Cost
Virtual reality experiences are a luxury; only a few manufacturers make the necessary equipment. So, they are relatively expensive. Besides the equipment, you will also need to purchase the games once in a while, and the cost tends to accumulate over time.
Also, if your VR equipment develops hardware issues, repairing it’s challenging and expensive.
Safety Issues
Most VR games require constant movement. Considering that you will have a virtual reality headset and are so oblivious to your surroundings, the chances of you bumping into a wall, toppling over objects, or any other injury is high. So, having a vast and empty space to do your VR workout is essential.
Decreases Social Interactions
Many people need more time to socialize in today’s fast-paced job world. To compensate for the lack of socialization, people prefer to work out with a group to get some form of social interaction out of work and motivate and push each other.
However, when you opt for VR workouts, you eliminate the socialization advantage, which might not be good in the long run.
Technical Difficulties
You will need some level of technical expertise to be able to operate virtual reality equipment as well as set up the different games. So, the fact that people need access to a constant electric power supply or technical expertise to benefit from this type of workout locks out a vast demographic.
Popular Virtual Reality Workout Games
If you are just getting started with VR workouts, it is good to go with enjoyable games that have proven to work. Below are some fan-favorites:
The Thrill of The Night
If you like boxing, or are targeting to work out your upper body, then the thrill of the night is an excellent choice for you. It mimics a boxing ring, and according to research, you can burn up to 15 calories per minute which is quite impressive.
FitXR
FitXr is an excellent option if you are undecided and want to sample different workouts. It works on a monthly subscription basis and has several payment tiers. Once you pay, you can access a vast catalog of exercises from yoga to archery.
Goalkeeper VR
This workout is excellent for people looking to improve their muscle coordination and overall concentration. The game involves you playing the role of a goalkeeper, where you can choose the speed at which the balls shoot at you.
Conclusion
Virtual reality workouts are a great way to get your workout, especially if you prefer to avoid the hassle of going to the gym. While it can be expensive to buy the required equipment, it is worth the expense in the long run. Nowadays, there are hundreds of virtual reality games to choose from, so you are bound to find one you will enjoy.
